Gasgoo Munich- SAIC-GM-Wuling has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with battery giant CATL in Ningde, Fujian province, deepening ties across four key areas: industrial scale-up, battery swapping for both passenger and commercial vehicles, joint overseas expansion, and broader ecosystem integration, according to the press release CATL issued on April 13 via its WeChat account.Image source: CATLThe deal signals a shift toward more comprehensive collaboration as both companies seek to accelerate electrification at scale.The two companies have worked together for nearly a decade, starting with models such as the Hongguang MINI EV and extending to more recent variants like the Yangguang Champion Edition. Under the new agreement, the partnership moves beyond single-model battery supply toward full-portfolio cooperation, covering multiple vehicle segments and use cases.On the supply side, more than 15 new energy models across SAIC-GM-Wuling's lineup will adopt CATL batteries as a core power solution, while the two companies jointly explore overseas market opportunities. In April 2026, the Huajing S—equipped with CATL battery systems—made its debut, highlighting enhanced power performance aimed at improving the intelligent driving experience. The partners are also working on next-generation fast-charging technology capable of boosting battery levels from 10% to 80% in under 10 minutes.In parallel, SAIC-GM-Wuling's battery-swapping models will be gradually integrated into CATL's nationwide swapping network, which is expected to exceed 3,000 battery swap stations by the end of the year. The network supports battery packs ranging from 42 kWh to 56 kWh, enabling compatibility across micro EVs, A- and B-segment passenger cars, as well as commercial logistics vehicles. The system is designed to enable rapid battery replacement, effectively allowing drivers to swap and go.Beyond passenger vehicles, both sides plan to expand collaboration into emerging applications such as autonomous mobility, further extending industrial synergies.
